— from Suzanne Olson —

Donning pink clothing, sunglasses – a boa – and padded bike shorts, more than 20 pedalers came together for the sixth annual CycloFemme ride this past Sunday on Orcas Island. Sponsored by Wildlife Cycles, riders joined thousands around the globe from 40 countries who have made the CycloFemme ride a Mother’s Day tradition. It’s also a great way to celebrate National Bike Month in May!

Riders of all ages – locals and visitors – gathered at Wildlife Cycles and completed a five-mile tour of four island beaches starting with Crescent Beach and ending at the Island Hoppin’ Brew Pub.

“CycloFemme was founded on the belief in the power for bikes to change lives,” said Orcas ride creator Jeni Sanders. “Each May, this fun ride gets me back on my bike, reconnects me with friends and the joy of riding. I’m healthier and happier when I ride – and it gives all people a greater sense of freedom.”

CycloFemme is a Global Celebration of Women created to honor the past from the shoulders of those who stood before us, for the freedom to choose and the chance to wear pants. To celebrate the present with strength and courage, voices raised, moving together. To empower the future of women everywhere, the backbone of positive social change. Learn more www.cyclofemme.com.

Wildlife Cycles is a full-service independent bike shop, centrally located in Eastsound, Orcas Island, in the heart of Washington’s San Juan islands. They offer bike rentals, professional repairs and bike maintenance, sales of new and demo bikes and adventurous bike events.